Stimulating advanced solutions for space robotics applied to inspection, maintenance, orbital debris management and space infrastructure construction, operating in environments characterised by extreme conditions (vacuum, radiation, microgravity). This is the objective of the “New perspectives for space inspection” challenge, promoted by Solvers Wanted.
Among the topics included in the challenge are capture systems for non-cooperative objects in orbit, robotic technologies for maintenance and manipulation, space infrastructure on the Moon and Mars, robotics for extracting resources from celestial bodies, and high-performance electronic components in hostile environments.
The start-ups that won the challenge are Adaptronics, with their project “Electro-adhesive gripping system for robotic in-orbit servicing operations,” and Fluid Wire Robotics (FWR), with their project “Robotic arm based on FWR technology for space environments.”
Adaptronics will develop an innovative gripping system that uses an electro-adhesive coating capable of attaching and detaching on command, consuming very little energy. This technology also works in extreme conditions, such as vacuum and microgravity, and will enable satellites to be captured and maintained in orbit.
Fluid Wire Robotics will begin development and simulations for the creation of a lightweight and durable robotic arm, designed to operate in space thanks to a special technology that separates the motors and sensors from the limb. This makes the arm more robust and safer, suitable for performing inspection and maintenance tasks even in hostile space environments.
The Kick-Off Meetings were attended by representatives of Leonardo’s Open Innovation team, the Space Division, the Robotics team, technical management and project coordinators. The two winning projects mark an important step towards innovation in the field of space inspection and autonomous robotics, confirming Leonardo’s commitment to partnering with deep tech start-ups to develop the technologies of the future.